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BLOGS
Helping you navigate education and relocation with clarity and confidence.


How to Research a University Before You Apply
The more informed you are before you apply, the more confident you'll feel in your decision. Researching a university isn't about finding the one with the highest ranking or the most impressive campus. It's about understanding whether it offers the experience, environment, and opportunities that are right for you.
Douglas Lam
Jul 203 min read


Moving to the Netherlands as an International Student: What to Do First
You made it. After countless housing applications, booking flights and somehow fitting your life into a 23-kilogram suitcase, you've finally arrived in the Netherlands.
But before university life truly begins, there is one more hurdle to overcome: Dutch bureaucracy. Learn your first must do steps.
Douglas Lam
Jul 25 min read


DAFT: What you need to know before you go
The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) has become an increasingly popular pathway for American entrepreneurs looking to relocate to the Netherlands. Compared to many other residence permits, the DAFT visa offers a relatively straightforward route for U.S. citizens to start or move their business and build a life abroad.
However, while obtaining the visa is often the first step people research, it is far from the only challenge
Douglas Lam
Jun 254 min read


Things to Consider Before Studying in the Netherlands
Studying in the Netherlands has become increasingly popular among international students and for good reason. With globally recognised universities, English-taught programmes, and an international learning environment, the Netherlands offers students a unique but approachable experience However, studying abroad involves much more than simply choosing a university. From understanding the Dutch education system to preparing for housing and relocation, there are many factors tha
Douglas Lam
Jun 75 min read


Understanding International School Systems: IB, iGCSE, & AP Explained
IB, iGCSE, AP… At first glance, many parents might wonder: What is this alphabet soup? When researching different international schools, families are often introduced to unfamiliar curricula, each with its own teaching style, structure and approach to learning. It's easy to wonder: what are the differences, and how might it affect my child’s education? While each curriculum aims to prepare students for university and their future career, they each take students on very diffe
Douglas Lam
May 284 min read


Leerplicht Explained: What Expat Families Need to Know About School Attendance
If you're moving to the Netherlands with children, you may come across the term leerplicht and wonder what it actually means for your family. To put it simply, leerplicht refers to compulsory education. But for expat families, understanding how it all works in practice can feel a little confusing at first. What is leerplicht? In the Netherlands, children are legally required to attend school from the age of 5. This means that once your child has reached this age, they must be
Your Next Step Consultancy
Apr 32 min read


Moving to the Netherlands with Children: What You Need to Know First
Relocating to a new country is exciting, but when you're moving with children, it comes with a completely different set of questions. Which school should they go to? Will they adjust? Will they feel happy and confident? If you're feeling unsure where to start, you're not alone. For many expat families, the education system is one of the most overwhelming parts of moving to the Netherlands. It's not just a single decision. One of the biggest surprises for families is that choo
Your Next Step Consultancy
Mar 272 min read


How to Choose the Right University (When Everything Feels Like the Right Choice)
If you've started researching universities, especially in places like the Netherlands, you've probably noticed something... Everything looks...good! The universities rank well, the programs sound interesting, and all the cities sound exciting. So how are you supposed to choose? It's not just about rankings Rankings is often the first thing students (and parents!) look at. And while they can give a sense of reputation, they don't tell you what your overall experience will be l
Your Next Step Consultancy
Mar 202 min read

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